Nasser Hussain shared his predictions for the semi-finalists, potential surprises, the top run-scorer, the highest wicket-taker, and the Player of the Tournament for the upcoming Women’s T20 World Cup.
Hussain noted that this edition of the Women’s T20 World Cup is particularly open, with several teams in the running for the title. The former England captain identified Australia and hosts England as the top favorites to reach the semi-finals.
He suggested that the West Indies could be a surprise contender, while he predicted New Zealand would secure the third semi-final spot. He ultimately chose India to edge past South Africa and make the top four, citing their recent improvements.
“Australia and England,” Hussain stated confidently on The ICC Review. “I mentioned West Indies could surprise, but I’m going with the reigning champions, New Zealand (for third). I lean towards India over South Africa since they perform better in big matches.”
“You saw that in the 50-over World Cup. Beating Australia in that format and then South Africa shows they may handle critical knockout games better than in less pressured situations against South Africa and England. So my four are Australia, England, New Zealand, and India. But South Africa and West Indies could also make it. Predicting this format is tough.”
Hussain also highlighted the West Indies’ potential, especially with players like Hayley Matthews, Deandra Dottin, and Chinelle Henry.
“I almost forgot to mention the West Indies entirely. They’ve won this tournament before, so it’s curious to label them as dark horses,” he said. “They knocked England out in Dubai at the 2024 event.”
“With Hayley Matthews, Deandra Dottin, and Chinelle Henry in the mix, they’re improving. Many players have played franchise Cricket and some in The Hundred in England. I can see the West Indies making it out of the group. They shouldn’t be overlooked because they’ve got a rich sporting history, but I believe they could perform well,” he added.
Hussain chose Beth Mooney as the likely top run-scorer and Lauren Bell as the highest wicket-taker of the tournament. When asked about the toughest team to face, he named Australia and backed Annabel Sutherland to take the Player of the Tournament award.